In Memoriam: Karen Glaser, 1938-2018

Karen Glaser, former dean of students at the University of New Mexico, passed away late last year. She was 80 years old.

Glaser began her career at the University of New Mexico in 1962 as a professional staff member as the dean of the women’s residence hall. In 1971, she was appointed dean of students, a position she held for the next 26 years. She retired in 1997 as associate vice president of student affairs and dean of students.

Glaser’s professional career led to her involvement with the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, both at the regional and national level. She was also associated with the National Association of Women Deans, Administrators and Counselors (now the National Association of Women in Education), the American College Personnel Association, the American Association of Higher Education Association of Student Judicial Affairs, Rotary Club of Albuquerque, and Rotary International. She served on the board of directors of the university’s Alumni Association and the University of New Mexico President Scholar Program. She was also the secretary/treasurer for the university’s chapter of Phi Kappa Phi.

Throughout her tenure at the university, Glaser received many awards including the Bernard Rodey Award in 2001, the Regents’ Meritorious Service Award in 1996, and the Alumni Association’s Lobo Award in 1991.

Glaser held a bachelor’s degree in music from Lindewood University in Saint Charles, Missouri, and a master’s degree from Indiana University Kokomo.